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A fireplace mantel is much more than a utilitarian piece of woodwork made to hold picture frames and candles. With the right paint color, a mantel can be a visually interesting focal point in a room that exudes the homeowner's personality. There are many ways to choose a paint color for a mantel, but evaluation of one's personal style is key no matter which way you go.

1

Determine your personal style. Examine the room for a common theme, color or decorating motif to use as a springboard for a mantel color. Choosing a desired style for the room is crucial since some colors work better with specific decorating styles.

2

Examine a color wheel. Choose a complementary color to the wall color in the room for the mantel. Complementary colors are those that are directly across from on another on the wheel and bring out the best in each other.

3

Pick an accent color found in drapery, accessories, pillows or a rug. Choosing a color found subtly throughout the room provides a cohesive look.

4

Opt for the same color on the mantel and the walls for a seamless backdrop in the room. By choosing not to paint the mantel a contrasting color, artwork or a special decorative accessory is easily showcased, becoming the focal point of the room.

5

Choose the same color as the woodwork. Painting a mantel in the same color and sheen as the baseboards, crown molding, windowsills and wainscoting is a safe and traditional option good for conservative personalities.

Things You Will Need

Color wheel

Tips

Saturated hues are more intense when painted on a wall or mantel than they appear on the paper paint strip.

About the Author

A mother of three and graduate of the University of Texas, Mary Evett is the online pregnancy expert who contributes to AXS.com and CBS Local. Her passion for DIY projects is showcased monthly on the craft blog, My Crafty Spot. She is the author of the blog, Just Mom Matters.